It is a well-known fact that people are usually quick to judge. Unfortunately, this does not exclude hiring managers and potential employers. It is important to make a great first impression, whether on the phone or in person. This includes what you say, what you wear, and how you present yourself overall. Here are a few suggestions for you to consider:

Look good: Personal appearance plays a key role in making a great first impression on a potential employer.

Always dress appropriately for interviews – this means business professional unless your interviewer has instructed you otherwise.

Keep it simple – don’t wear a ton of jewelry or anything else that could distract your interviewer from what you’re saying.

Avoid wearing perfume or cologne – your interviewer may be allergic.

Groom properly – perfection is in the details! Be sure to brush your teeth or pop a mint prior to an interview, and keep your fingernails neat, clean and trim.

Sound good: Having a summary of your background prepared is a great way to impress hiring managers both in an interview and on the phone.

Your interviewer will most likely have a copy of your resume in front of him or her, so they don’t need you to go over every position and responsibility in detail.

A great interview trick is the “60 Second Sell” (created by best-selling author Robin Ryan). Memorize a summary of your background and qualifications that you can present (in under 60 seconds) to a potential employer. Things to include would be your education, your skills, and any specific qualifications you have that make you a great fit for the position.

When hiring manager’s say “Tell me about yourself,” they don’t want you to ramble on for 15 minutes. With the” 60 Second Sell”, you will be able to highlight your best qualities and sell yourself in only a minute!

Feel good: Smile, even if you don’t feel like it!

Show potential employers that you are confident YOU would be the best choice for the position.

Even if you’re feeling nervous, it is important to walk into an interview with your head held high. Feigning confidence can even help you feel more confident, and you’ll forget you were ever nervous in the first place!

On the other hand, don’t be overconfident! No one wants to hire a big ego.

Remember: first impressions are lasting, especially in a slow job market! Employers can afford to be picky, so it is important you present them with the best version of you!